The municipality of Øksnes consists of 220 islands, islets and skerries. At Anda, the seabird life includes one of Nordland’s largest puffin colonies; the Dronningruta, in contrast, connects the historic fishing villages of Nyksund and Stø on a marked hiking trail. Nature conservation, wildlife watching and hiking reveal different sides of this island municipality.

Anda and the protection of seabirds

Anda Nature Reserve is a Ramsar site in the municipality of Øksnes in Nordland, at the northern end of Langøya. Anda is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in Nordland. To protect the breeding seabirds, landing on Anda is prohibited from 15 April to 31 July. If you plan to land there, check the current regulations in advance.

Stø/Nyksund Nature Reserve also protects seabirds: it was established in 2002 to preserve an important breeding area.

Hiking the Dronningruta

The Dronningruta is a marked circular route between the historic fishing villages of Nyksund and Stø. It is about 15 km long and takes 5 to 8 hours. The trail passes through varied landscapes, including mountains, shoreline, marshland, beaches and rocky terrain. When planning, consider the distance and time together: allow five to eight hours for the approximately 15 km. There is no access to drinking water along the route. So bring enough to drink and, if possible, a packed lunch.

Wildlife watching from Stø and Nyksund

The Stø Whale & Arctic Wildlife Safari departs from Stø in Vesterålen and searches for whales, puffins, seabirds, seals and other marine animals. It operates during the summer season, from June to August; weather, sea conditions and availability affect whether it runs. Check current dates and availability in advance. Potential wildlife sightings also depend on conditions.

A seabird and seal safari departs from Nyksund and returns there. During the tour, orcas, harbour porpoises and harbour seals may be spotted; sightings are seasonal and variable. The two excursions focus on different aspects of the listed wildlife and depart from different locations.

Cultural experiences in Nyksund

In Nyksund, visitors can attend concerts and meditative tours, as well as visit art galleries. Some places and events are seasonal or available on request. If you are planning to take part in a particular activity, check in advance whether it will be taking place during your visit or requires a request.

Getting to Tinden

Tinden is located on Tindsøya in Øksnes Vestbygd and can be reached by express boat from Myre or from the Skjellfjorden express boat pier. If you are planning to visit Tinden, check the express boat timetable before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Myre, Klo, Øksnes, Sandset, Alsvåg, Stø, Sørvågen, Moskenes.

Return to the main travel overview: Lofoten.